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Thomas G, Kay WT, Fones HN. Life on a leaf: the epiphyte to pathogen continuum and interplay in the phyllosphere. BMC Biol 2024; 22:168. [PMID: 39113027 PMCID: PMC11304629 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-024-01967-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 08/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Epiphytic microbes are those that live for some or all of their life cycle on the surface of plant leaves. Leaf surfaces are a topologically complex, physicochemically heterogeneous habitat that is home to extensive, mixed communities of resident and transient inhabitants from all three domains of life. In this review, we discuss the origins of leaf surface microbes and how different biotic and abiotic factors shape their communities. We discuss the leaf surface as a habitat and microbial adaptations which allow some species to thrive there, with particular emphasis on microbes that occupy the continuum between epiphytic specialists and phytopathogens, groups which have considerable overlap in terms of adapting to the leaf surface and between which a single virulence determinant can move a microbial strain. Finally, we discuss the recent findings that the wheat pathogenic fungus Zymoseptoria tritici spends a considerable amount of time on the leaf surface, and ask what insights other epiphytic organisms might provide into this pathogen, as well as how Z. tritici might serve as a model system for investigating plant-microbe-microbe interactions on the leaf surface.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - William T Kay
- Department of Plant Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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2
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Ratsoma FM, Mokoena NZ, Santana QC, Wingfield BD, Steenkamp ET, Motaung TE. Characterization of the Fusarium circinatum biofilm environmental response role. J Basic Microbiol 2024; 64:e2300536. [PMID: 38314962 DOI: 10.1002/jobm.202300536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
The capacity to form biofilms is a common trait among many microorganisms present on Earth. In this study, we demonstrate for the first time that the fatal pine pitch canker agent, Fusarium circinatum, can lead a biofilm-like lifestyle with aggregated hyphal bundles wrapped in extracellular matrix (ECM). Our research shows F. circinatum's ability to adapt to environmental changes by assuming a biofilm-like lifestyle. This was demonstrated by varying metabolic activities exhibited by the biofilms in response to factors like temperature and pH. Further analysis revealed that while planktonic cells produced small amounts of ECM per unit of the biomass, heat- and azole-exposed biofilms produced significantly more ECM than nonexposed biofilms, further demonstrating the adaptability of F. circinatum to changing environments. The increased synthesis of ECM triggered by these abiotic factors highlights the link between ECM production in biofilm and resistance to abiotic stress. This suggests that ECM-mediated response may be one of the key survival strategies of F. circinatum biofilms in response to changing environments. Interestingly, azole exposure also led to biofilms that were resistant to DNase, which typically uncouples biofilms by penetrating the biofilm and degrading its extracellular DNA; we propose that DNases were likely hindered from reaching target cells by the ECM barricade. The interplay between antifungal treatment and DNase enzyme suggests a complex relationship between eDNA, ECM, and antifungal agents in F. circinatum biofilms. Therefore, our results show how a phytopathogen's sessile (biofilm) lifestyle could influence its response to the surrounding environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francinah M Ratsoma
- Department of Biochemistry, Genetics, and Microbiology, Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute (FABI), University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Nthabiseng Z Mokoena
- Department of Biochemistry, Genetics, and Microbiology, Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute (FABI), University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Quentin C Santana
- Department of Biochemistry, Genetics, and Microbiology, Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute (FABI), University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Agricultural Research Council (ARC) Biotechnology Platform, Private Bag X5 Onderstepoort, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Brenda D Wingfield
- Department of Biochemistry, Genetics, and Microbiology, Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute (FABI), University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Emma T Steenkamp
- Department of Biochemistry, Genetics, and Microbiology, Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute (FABI), University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Thabiso E Motaung
- Department of Biochemistry, Genetics, and Microbiology, Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute (FABI), University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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3
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Kulišová M, Rabochová M, Lorinčík J, Brányik T, Hrudka J, Scholtz V, Jarošová Kolouchová I. Exploring Non-Thermal Plasma and UV Radiation as Biofilm Control Strategies against Foodborne Filamentous Fungal Contaminants. Foods 2024; 13:1054. [PMID: 38611358 PMCID: PMC11011738 DOI: 10.3390/foods13071054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
In recent years, non-thermal plasma (NTP) has emerged as a promising tool for decontamination and disinfection within the food industry. Given the increasing resistance of microbial biofilms to conventional disinfectants and their adverse environmental effects, this method has significant potential for eliminating biofilm formation or mitigating the metabolic activity of grown biofilms. A comparative study was conducted evaluating the efficacy of UV radiation and NTP in eradicating mature biofilms of four common foodborne filamentous fungal contaminants: Alternaria alternata, Aspergillus niger, Fusarium culmorum, and Fusarium graminearum. The findings reveal that while UV radiation exhibits variable efficacy depending on the duration of exposure and fungal species, NTP induces substantial morphological alterations in biofilms, disrupting hyphae, and reducing extracellular polymeric substance production, particularly in A. alternata and F. culmorum. Notably, scanning electron microscopy analysis demonstrates significant disruption of the hyphae in NTP-treated biofilms, indicating its ability to penetrate the biofilm matrix, which is a promising outcome for biofilm eradication strategies. The use of NTP could offer a more environmentally friendly and potentially more effective alternative to traditional disinfection methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markéta Kulišová
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague, Technická 5, 166 28 Prague, Czech Republic;
| | - Michaela Rabochová
- Department of Material Analysis, Research Centre Rez, Hlavní 130, 250 68 Husinec-Řež, Czech Republic; (M.R.); (J.L.)
- Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Czech Technical University in Prague, nám. Sítná 3105, 272 01 Kladno, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Lorinčík
- Department of Material Analysis, Research Centre Rez, Hlavní 130, 250 68 Husinec-Řež, Czech Republic; (M.R.); (J.L.)
| | - Tomáš Brányik
- Research Institute of Brewing and Malting, Lípová 15, 120 44 Prague, Czech Republic;
| | - Jan Hrudka
- Department of Physics and Measurements, Prague, University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague, Technická 5, 166 28 Prague, Czech Republic; (J.H.); (V.S.)
| | - Vladimír Scholtz
- Department of Physics and Measurements, Prague, University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague, Technická 5, 166 28 Prague, Czech Republic; (J.H.); (V.S.)
| | - Irena Jarošová Kolouchová
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague, Technická 5, 166 28 Prague, Czech Republic;
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4
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Moonjely S, Ebert M, Paton-Glassbrook D, Noel ZA, Roze L, Shay R, Watkins T, Trail F. Update on the state of research to manage Fusarium head blight. Fungal Genet Biol 2023; 169:103829. [PMID: 37666446 DOI: 10.1016/j.fgb.2023.103829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
Fusarium head blight (FHB) is one of the most devastating diseases of cereal crops, causing severe reduction in yield and quality of grain worldwide. In the United States, the major causal agent of FHB is the mycotoxigenic fungus, Fusarium graminearum. The contamination of grain with mycotoxins, including deoxynivalenol and zearalenone, is a particularly serious concern due to its impact on the health of humans and livestock. For the past few decades, multidisciplinary studies have been conducted on management strategies designed to reduce the losses caused by FHB. However, effective management is still challenging due to the emergence of fungicide-tolerant strains of F. graminearum and the lack of highly resistant wheat and barley cultivars. This review presents multidisciplinary approaches that incorporate advances in genomics, genetic-engineering, new fungicide chemistries, applied biocontrol, and consideration of the disease cycle for management of FHB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soumya Moonjely
- Department of Plant Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48823, USA
| | - Malaika Ebert
- Department of Plant Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48823, USA
| | - Drew Paton-Glassbrook
- Department of Plant Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48823, USA; Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48823, USA
| | - Zachary A Noel
- Department of Plant Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48823, USA
| | - Ludmila Roze
- Department of Plant Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48823, USA
| | - Rebecca Shay
- Department of Plant Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48823, USA
| | - Tara Watkins
- Department of Plant Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48823, USA; Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48823, USA
| | - Frances Trail
- Department of Plant Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48823, USA; Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48823, USA.
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5
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Stepanov AA, Vasilchenko AV, Vasilchenko AS. Subinhibitory effects of 2,4-diacetylphloroglucinol on filamentous fungus Aspergillus fumigatus. J Appl Microbiol 2023; 134:lxad294. [PMID: 38086610 DOI: 10.1093/jambio/lxad294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Aspergillus fungi are common members of the soil microbiota. Some physiological and structural characteristics of Aspergillus species make them important participants in soil ecological processes. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the impact of 2,4-diacetylphloroglucinol (2,4-DAPG), a common metabolite of soil and rhizosphere bacteria, on the physiology of Aspergillus fumigatus. METHODS AND RESULTS Integrated analysis using microscopy, spectrophotometry, and liquid chromatography showed the following effects of 2,4-DAPG on Aspergillus physiology. It was found that A. fumigatus in the biofilm state is resistant to high concentrations of 2,4-DAPG. However, experimental exposure led to a depletion of the extracellular polymeric substance, changes in the structure of the cell wall of the mycelium (increase in the content of α- and β-glucans, chitin, and ergosterol), and conidia (decrease in the content of DHN-melanin). 2,4-DAPG significantly reduced the production of mycotoxins (gliotoxin and fumagillin) but increased the secretion of proteases and galactosaminogalactan. CONCLUSIONS Overall, the data obtained suggest that 2,4-DAPG-producing Pseudomonas bacteria are unlikely to directly eliminate A. fumigatus fungi, as they exhibit a high level of resistance when in the biofilm state. However, at low concentrations, 2,4-DAPG significantly alters the physiology of aspergilli, potentially reducing the adaptive and competitive capabilities of these fungi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Artyom A Stepanov
- Laboratory of antimicrobial resistance, Institute of Environmental and Agricultural Biology (X-BIO), Tyumen State University, Tyumen 625003, Russia
| | - Anastasia V Vasilchenko
- Laboratory of antimicrobial resistance, Institute of Environmental and Agricultural Biology (X-BIO), Tyumen State University, Tyumen 625003, Russia
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Ecology of Microorganisms, All-Russian Institute of Plant Protection, Pushkin 196608, Russia
| | - Alexey S Vasilchenko
- Laboratory of antimicrobial resistance, Institute of Environmental and Agricultural Biology (X-BIO), Tyumen State University, Tyumen 625003, Russia
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Yi J, Sun Y, Zeng C, Kostoulias X, Qu Y. The Role of Biofilms in Contact Lens Associated Fungal Keratitis. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:1533. [PMID: 37887234 PMCID: PMC10604847 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12101533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Biofilm formation is an important microbial strategy for fungal pathogens, such as Fusarium, Aspergillus, and Candida, to establish keratitis in patients wearing soft contact lenses. Despite the well-documented 2006 outbreak of Fusarium keratitis that eventually led to the withdrawal of the Bausch & Lomb multipurpose lens care solution ReNu with MoistureLoc ("MoistureLoc") from the global market, contact lens care systems and solutions currently available on the market do not specifically target fungal biofilms. This is partially due to the lack of recognition and understanding of important roles that fungal biofilms play in contact lens associated fungal keratitis (CLAFK). This review aims to reemphasize the link between fungal biofilms and CLAFK, and deepen our comprehension of its importance in pathogenesis and persistence of this medical device-related infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jipan Yi
- Department of Optometry, Zhejiang Industry & Trade Vocational College, Wenzhou 325000, China; (J.Y.); (C.Z.)
| | - Yao Sun
- Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Microbiology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia; (Y.S.); (X.K.)
| | - Chenghong Zeng
- Department of Optometry, Zhejiang Industry & Trade Vocational College, Wenzhou 325000, China; (J.Y.); (C.Z.)
| | - Xenia Kostoulias
- Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Microbiology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia; (Y.S.); (X.K.)
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Alfred Hospital and Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3000, Australia
| | - Yue Qu
- Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Microbiology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia; (Y.S.); (X.K.)
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Alfred Hospital and Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3000, Australia
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7
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Hof C, Khan MF, Murphy CD. Endogenous production of 2-phenylethanol by Cunninghamella echinulata inhibits biofilm growth of the fungus. Fungal Biol 2023; 127:1384-1388. [PMID: 37993249 DOI: 10.1016/j.funbio.2023.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
The filamentous fungus Cunninghamella echinulata is a model of mammalian xenobiotic metabolism. Under certain conditions it grows as a biofilm, which is a natural form of immobilisation and enables the fungus to catalyse repeated biotransformations. Putative signalling molecules produced by other Cunninghamella spp., such as 3-hydroxytyrosol and tyrosol, do not affect the biofilm growth of C. echinulata, suggesting that it employs a different molecule to regulate biofilm growth. In this paper we report that 2-phenylethanol is produced in higher concentrations in planktonic cultures of C. echinulata than when the fungus is grown as a biofilm. We demonstrate that exogenously added 2-phenylethanol inhibits biofilm growth of C. echinulata but has no effect on planktonic growth. Furthermore, we show that addition of 2-phenylethanol to established C. echinulata biofilm causes detachment. Therefore, we conclude that this molecule is produced by the fungus to regulate biofilm growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carina Hof
- UCD School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Mohd Faheem Khan
- UCD School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Cormac D Murphy
- UCD School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland.
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8
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Zhou Y, Lu X, Hao J, Li S. Quantitative Acetylome Analysis of Differentially Modified Proteins in Virulence-Differentiated Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cucumerinum Isolates during Cucumber Colonization. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:920. [PMID: 37755028 PMCID: PMC10532600 DOI: 10.3390/jof9090920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cucumerinum (Foc) is a prominent pathogen that adversely affects cucumber (Cucumis sativus) production. In the pathogen's parasitic lifestyle, the pathogenesis and virulence evolution may be regulated by lysine acetylation, as demonstrated in many living organisms. However, its specific function in Foc remains poorly understood. In this study, the acetylome profiles of a mild virulence strain (foc-3b) and its derived virulence-enhanced strain (Ra-4) were analyzed before and post-inoculation on cucumber plants. In total, 10,664 acetylation sites were identified corresponding to 3874 proteins, and 45 conserved acetylation motifs were detected. Through comparison of the acetylomes, numerous differentially lysine-acetylated proteins were enriched in energy metabolism and protein processing processes, indicating the critical role of lysine acetylation during the transition from the saprotrophic lifestyle to the parasitic lifestyle. Comparative acetylome analyses on the two virulence-differentiated strains revealed that several differentially lysine-acetylated proteins were involved in pathways of defense response and energy metabolism. Ra-4 showed enhanced energy metabolism compared to foc-3b. This indicates that robust metabolic activity is required to achieve high virulence and facilitating adaptive evolution. Additionally, faster host responses are supported by an ample energy supply enhancing virulence. Thus, lysine acetylation plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis and virulence evolution of Foc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Zhou
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Xiaohong Lu
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Jianjun Hao
- School of Food and Agriculture, University of Maine, Orono, ME 04469, USA
| | - Shidong Li
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
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9
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Becerril R, Precone M, Nerin C. Antibiofilm activity of LAE (ethyl lauroyl arginate) against food-borne fungi and its application in polystyrene surface coating. Food Microbiol 2023; 113:104284. [PMID: 37098437 DOI: 10.1016/j.fm.2023.104284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/27/2023]
Abstract
Several filamentous fungi species as Fusarium oxysporum or Cladosporium sp. can form biofilms by themselves or by participating in polymicrobial biofilms with bacteria. However, despite the high impact of biofilm on the food industry and the high efforts done to control biofilm produced by bacteria in the food area, there has been little study of strategies to control fungal biofilm in this area. In this study, the antibiofilm activity of the safe antimicrobial compound ethyl lauroyl arginate (LAE) was investigated against food spoilage fungi (Cladosporium cladosporioides, Aspergillus ochraceus, Penicillium italicum, Botrytis cynerea and Fusarium oxyspoum). Finally, the efficacy of a varnish-based coating incorporating LAE and coated onto polystyrene microtiter plates has been evaluated as a strategy to reduce fungal biofilm formation. The results of the 2,3-bis-(2-metoxi-4-nitro-5-sulfofenil)-2H-tetrazoilo-5-carboxanilida (XTT) assay, which measure the biofilm metabolic activity of moulds, demonstrated that LAE reduced significantly the formation of fungal biofilm at concentrations from 6 to 25 mg/L. This reduction was confirmed by the micrographs obtained by scanning electronic microscopy (SEM). In addition, LAE also showed antifungal activity against established biofilms. Particularly, it reduced their metabolic activity and viability at concentrations from 6 to 25 mg/L according to results obtained in the XTT assay and observations made by confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). Finally, active coating incorporating from 2% of LAE proved to reduce significantly the biofilm formation in C. cladosporioides, B. cynerea and F. oxyspoum according to the results obtained in the XTT assay. However, the released studies indicated that the retention of LAE in the coating should be improved to prolong their activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Becerril
- I3A-Aragón Institute of Engineering Research, University of Zaragoza, María de Luna 3, 50018, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - M Precone
- University of Bologna, Via Zamboni, 33, 40126, Bologna, BO, Italy
| | - C Nerin
- I3A-Aragón Institute of Engineering Research, University of Zaragoza, María de Luna 3, 50018, Zaragoza, Spain.
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Wang Z, Kim W, Wang YW, Yakubovich E, Dong C, Trail F, Townsend JP, Yarden O. The Sordariomycetes: an expanding resource with Big Data for mining in evolutionary genomics and transcriptomics. FRONTIERS IN FUNGAL BIOLOGY 2023; 4:1214537. [PMID: 37746130 PMCID: PMC10512317 DOI: 10.3389/ffunb.2023.1214537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Advances in genomics and transcriptomics accompanying the rapid accumulation of omics data have provided new tools that have transformed and expanded the traditional concepts of model fungi. Evolutionary genomics and transcriptomics have flourished with the use of classical and newer fungal models that facilitate the study of diverse topics encompassing fungal biology and development. Technological advances have also created the opportunity to obtain and mine large datasets. One such continuously growing dataset is that of the Sordariomycetes, which exhibit a richness of species, ecological diversity, economic importance, and a profound research history on amenable models. Currently, 3,574 species of this class have been sequenced, comprising nearly one-third of the available ascomycete genomes. Among these genomes, multiple representatives of the model genera Fusarium, Neurospora, and Trichoderma are present. In this review, we examine recently published studies and data on the Sordariomycetes that have contributed novel insights to the field of fungal evolution via integrative analyses of the genetic, pathogenic, and other biological characteristics of the fungi. Some of these studies applied ancestral state analysis of gene expression among divergent lineages to infer regulatory network models, identify key genetic elements in fungal sexual development, and investigate the regulation of conidial germination and secondary metabolism. Such multispecies investigations address challenges in the study of fungal evolutionary genomics derived from studies that are often based on limited model genomes and that primarily focus on the aspects of biology driven by knowledge drawn from a few model species. Rapidly accumulating information and expanding capabilities for systems biological analysis of Big Data are setting the stage for the expansion of the concept of model systems from unitary taxonomic species/genera to inclusive clusters of well-studied models that can facilitate both the in-depth study of specific lineages and also investigation of trait diversity across lineages. The Sordariomycetes class, in particular, offers abundant omics data and a large and active global research community. As such, the Sordariomycetes can form a core omics clade, providing a blueprint for the expansion of our knowledge of evolution at the genomic scale in the exciting era of Big Data and artificial intelligence, and serving as a reference for the future analysis of different taxonomic levels within the fungal kingdom.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Wang
- Department of Biostatistics, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Wonyong Kim
- Korean Lichen Research Institute, Sunchon National University, Suncheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Yen-Wen Wang
- Department of Biostatistics, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Elizabeta Yakubovich
- Department of Plant Pathology and Microbiology, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Caihong Dong
- Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Frances Trail
- Department of Plant Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
- Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
| | - Jeffrey P. Townsend
- Department of Biostatistics, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, United States
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Program in Microbiology, and Program in Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Oded Yarden
- Department of Plant Pathology and Microbiology, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
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11
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Digra S, Nonzom S. An insight into endophytic antimicrobial compounds: an updated analysis. PLANT BIOTECHNOLOGY REPORTS 2023; 17:1-31. [PMID: 37359493 PMCID: PMC10013304 DOI: 10.1007/s11816-023-00824-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Resistance in micro-organisms against antimicrobial compounds is an emerging phenomenon in the modern era as compared to the traditional world which brings new challenges to discover novel antimicrobial compounds from different available sources, such as, medicinal plants, various micro-organisms, like, bacteria, fungi, algae, actinomycetes, and endophytes. Endophytes reside inside the plants without exerting any harmful impact on the host plant along with providing ample of benefits. In addition, they are capable of producing diverse antimicrobial compounds similar to their host, allowing them to serve as useful micro-organism for a range of therapeutic purposes. In recent years, a large number of studies on the antimicrobial properties of endophytic fungi have been carried out globally. These antimicrobials have been used to treat various bacterial, fungal, and viral infections in humans. In this review, the potential of fungal endophytes to produce diverse antimicrobial compounds along with their various benefits to their host have been focused on. In addition, classification systems of endophytic fungi as well as the need for antimicrobial production with genetic involvement and some of the vital novel antimicrobial compounds of endophytic origin can further be utilized in the pharmaceutical industries for various formulations along with the role of nanoparticles as antimicrobial agents have been highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shivani Digra
- Depatment of Botany, University of Jammu, Jammu, J&K 180006 India
| | - Skarma Nonzom
- Depatment of Botany, University of Jammu, Jammu, J&K 180006 India
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12
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Shivaji S, Nagapriya B, Ranjith K. Differential Susceptibility of Mixed Polymicrobial Biofilms Involving Ocular Coccoid Bacteria ( Staphylococcus aureus and S. epidermidis) and a Filamentous Fungus ( Fusarium solani) on Ex Vivo Human Corneas. Microorganisms 2023; 11:microorganisms11020413. [PMID: 36838378 PMCID: PMC9964441 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11020413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Biofilms confer several advantages to the organisms associated with them, such as increased resistances to antibacterial and antifungal compounds compared to free living cells. Compared to monomicrobial biofilms involving a single microorganism, biofilms composed of microorganisms affiliated to bacterial and fungal kingdoms are predominant in nature. Despite the predominance of polymicrobial biofilms, and more so mixed polymicrobial biofilms, they are rarely studied. The objective of the current study is to evaluate the potential of ocular bacteria and a filamentous fungus to form monomicrobial and mixed polymicrobial biofilms on synthetic and natural substrates and to monitor their response to antibiotics. In this sense, we demonstrated that the ocular pathogens Staphylococcus aureus, S. epidermidis, and Fusarium solani form monomicrobial and mixed polymicrobial biofilms both on tissue culture polystyrene plates and on ex vivo human corneas from cadavers using confocal microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Additionally, the mixed polymicrobial biofilms involving the above ocular bacteria and a filamentous fungus were less susceptible to different antibacterials and antifungals in relation to the corresponding control planktonic cells. Further, the MICs to the screened antibacterials and antifungals in polymicrobial biofilms involving a bacterium or a fungus was either increased, decreased, or unchanged compared to the corresponding individual bacterial or fungal biofilm. The results would be useful to the ophthalmologist to plan effective treatment regimens for the eye since these are common pathogens of the eye causing keratitis, endophthalmitis, conjunctivitis, etc.
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Staphylococcus aureus Biofilm Inhibiting Activity of Advanced Glycation Endproduct Crosslink Breaking and Glycation Inhibiting Compounds. Antibiotics (Basel) 2022; 11:antibiotics11101412. [PMID: 36290070 PMCID: PMC9598957 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics11101412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Staphylococcus aureus is a Gram-positive bacterium that plays a role in the pathogenesis of skin lesions in diabetes mellitus, atopic dermatitis, and psoriasis, all of which are associated with elevated non-enzymatic glycation biomarkers. The production of biofilm protects resident bacteria from host immune defenses and antibiotic interventions, prolonging pathogen survival, and risking recurrence after treatment. Glycated proteins formed from keratin and glucose induce biofilm formation in S. aureus, promoting dysbiosis and increasing pathogenicity. In this study, several glycation-inhibiting and advanced glycation endproduct (AGE) crosslink-breaking compounds were assayed for their ability to inhibit glycated keratin-induced biofilm formation as preliminary screening for clinical testing candidates. Ascorbic acid, astaxanthin, clove extract, n-phenacylthiazolium bromide, and rosemary extract were examined in an in vitro static biofilm model with S. aureus strain ATCC 12600. Near complete biofilm inhibition was achieved with astaxanthin (ED50 = 0.060 mg/mL), clove extract (ED50 = 0.0087 mg/mL), n-phenacylthiazolium bromide (ED50 = 5.3 mg/mL), and rosemary extract (ED50 = 1.5 mg/mL). The dosage necessary for biofilm inhibition was not significantly correlated with growth inhibition (R2 = 0.055. p = 0.49). Anti-glycation and AGE breaking compounds with biofilm inhibitory activity are ideal candidates for treatment of S. aureus dysbiosis and skin infection that is associated with elevated skin glycation.
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